CME Awards Programs
CME Manitoba Manufacturers' Hall of Fame 2009
Art DeFehr – Palliser Furniture
Art DeFehr has built Palliser Furniture into one of the most successful furniture manufacturers in Canada, with plants in the United States, Mexico and Indonesia, the company employs over 2,700 people with annual sales exceeding $200 million each year.
The company was founded in 1944 by Abram Albert DeFehr, Art’s father. After taking over as CEO and President in 1984, he has been highly regarded within the industry and recognized both for his business leadership as well as his contributions to humanitarian projects throughout the world.
Russ Edwards – Westman Group
Russ Edwards has built a company as 'Strong as Steel', according to Manitoba Business Magazine (1999). Started in 1975, over the years he has successfully built WGI Westman Group Inc. into a dynamic group of companies composed of Behlen Industries LP, Westman Steel Industries, Meridian Manufacturing Group and Canada Culvert.
The Westman Group operates manufacturing, sales and distribution facilities in 24 centres in Canada and the United States, maintains dealer networks across North America, and has a worldwide customer base. The Westman Group employs over 1000 people and records annual gross revenues of over $300 million.
The Hall of Fame award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated leadership in the development of their company or companies.
Criteria used to determine recipients for this award will include:
- Has consistently demonstrated leadership and success in their chosen industry
- Is integrated into the community
- Has designed/implemented new or revolutionary products, systems or processes
- Is a demonstrated mentor, with a positive impact on youth and students.
- Is a visionary leader